Panic spread through the banquet hall as more guests began to feel the effects of the poison. The laughter faded into concerned murmurs, and Lin Feng's heart raced. He steadied Lian, his eyes scanning the room for answers. "We need help! Someone fetch the healer!" he shouted, his voice rising above the commotion.
Lady Mei, watching from a distance, felt a mix of satisfaction and dread. She hadn't expected the poison to spread so quickly, nor the chaos it would create. In her mind, it was a calculated risk, but as panic erupted, she began to fear the backlash.
As the healer rushed into the hall, Lin Feng supported Lian, trying to keep her steady. "Stay with me, Lian," he urged, his voice filled with urgency. "You're going to be alright."
The healer quickly assessed the situation, moving among the guests and checking for symptoms. "What's happened?" she demanded, her brow furrowed. "Who has been affected?"
"Poison," Lin Feng replied, his voice taut with anxiety. "We need to identify the source. It was in the drinks."
The healer immediately began to work, administering an antidote to those displaying the worst symptoms. Lin Feng watched as Lian's face paled, her breathing shallow. He felt a surge of helplessness, and his mind raced as he recalled the strange behavior of Lady Mei.